The Christmas lights switch-on in Elstree and Borehamwood has been branded an "embarrassment".

EastEnders star Dame Barbara Windsor was introduced but couldn't be seen by the crowds.

To make matters worse, town Mayor Cllr Clive Butchins forgot just why the stage and screen star was famous despite having a lengthy career in EastEnders and starring in many Carry On films.

After finally being seen by the crowd, Dame Barbara Windsor spoke to everyone and gave a brief description of her time working in the area.

However, when asked when the lights should be turned on Cllr Butchins replied saying they had already been turned on.

She said: "What the bleeding hell am I doing here? They are so disorganised I tell you."

Being a professional star she did not let this get to her and starting singing We Wish You A Merry Christmas with the crowd joining in.

Hertsmere Borough Councillor Michelle Vince said: "Just like a Carry On film he [Cllr Butchins] forgot her films and EastEnders and the fact she is a Dame."

Others have said it was awful with Margaret Hall saying on Facebook it was truly embarrassing.

Sarah Foster, who went to the switch on, said: "It was a farce all round.

"The PA system wasn't very good and you couldn't hear a thing unless you were standing under it, the mayor did not have a speech prepared and did not have a clue who Dame Barbara Windsor was and stumbled over his words.

"No body could see her so she asked to stand on a chair and safety was also a big issue.

"How the hell nobody was run over is anyone's guess.

"There was a brilliant turn out but the crowd ended up having to stand in the road or on the islands and the safety barrier was well not put in place very well and not enough PCSOs to help with the size of the crowd.

"The lights were switched on before the flick of the switch and nobody was aware they had come on until Dame Barbara mentioned it so in effect we in the crowd also missed it and there was disappointment all round.

"All that we saw happen was the tree lights coming on.But we enjoyed the song song and she was very professional."